Make an Impact

Participants at MAD Seat 2018 resting, refueling and chatting away.

Let’s face it: no one wants to be contributing to climate change, ocean plastics or the loss of bees. But it’s difficult to know what to do that will actually make a difference, especially if you’re not that into hugging trees…

Well, for once it turns out that the simplest step you can take is also one of the most effective: talk about it.

Our relationship with nature is far more than just an environmental fling. It is intertwined with all aspects of our lives: from the food we eat and energy we use, to our national health, wealth and security. The problem is that these connections aren’t always obvious, so it can be easy to take things for granted.

To avoid this, we can look at how the dots join up between our own lives and the environment around us – to see the whole picture, not just a piece of it. And the best way to widen your view is to talk with those around you – especially those who see things differently – to share the connections you see and the value you seen in them.

Because this relationship can only get better if enough people – from all walks of life – see why it matters to them and have a voice in the conversation.

Looking for a conversation starter? Here are three areas with some of our strongest connections with nature:

Food

Perhaps our most direct connection with nature. And there are many important taste, health, financial and cultural considerations too… Probably a good place to start.

Vegetarian and vegan diets are – onaverage – better for the environment. But these all-or-nothing rules are certainly not to everyone’s taste. Try finding a diet that suits you and builds on what you care about.

Maybe that’s eating more local and seasonal foods, more veg and less meat, or simply exploring more diversity in your diet.

Waste

Nobody likes waste, whether it’s energy, food or stuff. Have you ever imagined a better future where things become more wasteful? Us neither.

Do more with less: keep an eye on what you throw away or buy then hardly ever use, and opportunities will start to boop you on the nose.

Think about what can be shared, hired, insulated, switched off, reduced and reused. What can save you hassle and money, orbe exchanged for a friendly beer? It’s all about getting more bang for your buck.